Theory of perversion

Stan enjoying a winter paddle in Holyrood, Newfound- land

Well, tomorrow spring starts and with it warmer weather and the start of paddling season proper. I look forward to it and the chance to build on paddling skills learned last year.

But, in a perverse kind of way, I'll miss paddling in the cold of winter. Its the only time of year when you can dress the same for both air and water temperature. This winter was my first time paddling in winter and I managed 7 outings over the season. I'll miss paddling in the cold but I'm content with moving on.

Like anything new, there's a learning curve until you get the hang of it. Here's what I learned about winter paddling that made it quite enjoyable:

1. The hardest part is getting over the feeling of looking outside and thinking burrrrr.... Its not as bad as it looks once ya get out.
2. Wear gloves and keep them on when getting ready for put-in or take-out. Ya don't want to start your paddle with cold hands.
3. Wear neoprene mitts. The water that gets in them warms and keeps you hands warm.
4. Stuff your neoprene mitts under your PFD when stopping for lunch to keep them warm for after the break
5. Paddle where its possible to wash the salt off your gear "in the field" so you don't need to get out the hose at home.

Now, while spring starts tomorrow, there'll still be cool conditions for us into June. Oh yes, and the promise of icebergs.

Thanks Stan for the excellent company and winter paddles we did.

Tony :-)